Physical Therapist Assistant Hourly Pay in Cape Girardeau, MO: $30.41 (2026)

For part-time physical therapist assistants in Cape Girardeau, working three days a week could yield an annual income of about $37,000, significantly less than if one were to work full-time. Some professionals opt for per diem positions, with pay rates commonly ranging between $32 and $48 per hour, which can provide flexibility but may lack steady hours and benefits. Travel physical therapist assistant contracts can be lucrative as well, often paying anywhere from $1,200 to $1,800 per week, though these are not always within reach for local workers. It's noteworthy that facilities such as outpatient orthopedic clinics and skilled nursing facilities often provide varying pay rates, reflective of the specific duties required and resources available. For example, while some PTAs may accept reduced hourly wages for the security of health insurance, others may prefer higher pay without added benefits. Negotiating effectively in Cape Girardeau requires understanding the value of your skills while considering the specific context of the local job market and varying organizational budgets.